Archive · 9 Jan 2026
Airlines Expected to Increase Bank Borrowing in 2026
Airlines in India are expected to borrow more money from banks in 2026.
This is because they plan to add many new planes, hire more staff, and expand their services to other countries.
They also need to manage higher costs for fuel, leases, and foreign exchange.
Even though they borrowed less in 2025, the total amount of loans they have is still growing.
However, the industry is expected to make losses, which might make them rely more on external funding.
Airlines expect to add 130–140 aircraft in 2026, including 10–15 wide-body planes.
Higher staffing costs and international expansion will drive increased borrowing.
Net bank borrowing fell to Rs 2,183 crore in 2025, down from Rs 6,700 crore in 2024.
Total outstanding loans to the aviation industry reached Rs 48,649 crore by November 28, 2025.
The domestic aviation industry is projected to post a net loss of Rs 17,000–18,000 crore in FY26.
- Who
- Airlines in India
- What
- Increased bank borrowing for aircraft inductions, staffing, and expansion
- When
- 2026
- Where
- India
- Why
- To fund aircraft deliveries, higher costs, and international expansion
- Expected Aircraft Additions in 2026
- 130–140
- Wide-Body Planes in 2026
- 10–15
- Net Bank Borrowing in 2025 (up to Nov 28)
- Rs 2,183 crore
- Net Bank Borrowing in 2024 (same period)
- Rs 6,700 crore
- Total Outstanding Loans (as of Nov 28, 2025)
- Rs 48,649 crore
- Expected Net Loss in FY26
- Rs 17,000–18,000 crore
- Year-on-Year Credit Growth (Nov 2025)
- 4.7%